Fake broker or financial advisor
A story
Raymond, 67, a retiree in Trois-Rivières, sees a Facebook ad: a TV host he knows well recommends an investment platform “reserved for Québécois”. He leaves his contact details and pays $250 to “activate his profile”. What he doesn't know is that the video was faked with artificial intelligence.
The next day, “Antoine, senior advisor”, calls. Courteous, patient, he talks about “managed accounts” and 4% weekly returns. He asks Raymond to install a remote-access program “to set up your wallet safely”. While Antoine “works”, windows open and close on the screen. Raymond understands none of it, but Antoine is so reassuring.
Raymond buys crypto himself on a legitimate platform, then sends it to the “managed account”: $22,000. “Updates” arrive daily. When he asks for $5,000 to fix his roof, he's told there's a “15% exit fee”. He understands.
A fictional story inspired by real cases. Names and details are invented.
How it works
Ad or contact
Ads use the image of well-known people without their consent, sometimes with AI-altered videos. After you leave your details, an “advisor” calls you.
Frequent calls
The advisor calls often, promises high returns and creates a sense of urgency.
Remote-access software
You're asked to install software such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer. The person can then see your accounts and act on your device.
Sending crypto
You buy crypto on a legitimate platform and send it to an account they control. Crypto transfers can't be reversed, even when you were tricked into sending them.
Exit fees
When you try to withdraw, you're asked for fees, taxes or a verification. Contact stops when you stop paying.
The warning signs
- An ad with a well-known person recommending an investment
- Repeated, unsolicited calls from an “advisor”
- A request to install remote-access software
- An advisor you can't find on aretheyregistered.ca ↗ or in the AMF register
- A request to send crypto to an address you don't control
- Guaranteed returns or pressure to act quickly
If it happens to you
- Uninstall the remote-access software and change your passwords from another device.
- Check the registration of anyone offering you an investment: aretheyregistered.ca ↗ and the AMF.
- Contact your crypto platform through its official app, then your bank.
- Keep statements, emails and phone numbers.
- Report to the AMF, police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Official contacts → · Your platform's help page →
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